The Wander Scale

When you travel from point A to B you can go via a direct or indirect route. The type of geography and route also affect the journey. A large, direct road offers the opportunity to travel faster. A small, indirect road will be slower. I wanted to compare the difference in the quality of experience between taking a direct vs indirect route. I had been studying ‘The theory of the Dérive by Guy Debord’ and this methodology offered a way to be mindful of the difference.

I created “The Wander Scale” which is a tree-like pattern reflecting a detour from the main route to smaller routes.

If you stay on the large roads, you get there quickly and more assuredly but you see less and have less chance for meetings and serendipity. If you stray from the course and keep straying, you will likely end up never reaching your goal. The goal is still important as it represents a sense of direction that steers your journey and drives it forward.

• Wandering
• Walking
• Psychogeography